​       Samantha L. Calvin, MS, MBA

Overview:
This project was a dynamic collaboration between Rochester Math and Science Academy (RMSA), Intercultural Mutual Assistance Association (IMAA), and Mayo Clinic. The three groups collectively trained Somalia Community Health Workers (CHW) to develop nutritional education, physical activity opportunities, and systems for increased academic achievement and integrate them into the Somalia community. 

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Background:
Support was requested for 10 Community Health Worker (CHW) Scholarships to work with the health needs of refugees in Minnesota. The Intercultural Mutual Assistance Association (IMAA) is located in Rochester. IMAA has provided certified CHW training for 12 Somali community members. IMAA is a non-for-profit organization that provides CHW training and among many other culturally and linguistically appropriate support services for refugees and immigrants. In 2010, IMAA assisted 824 refugees and immigrants, in finding employment and helped guide over 2,000 people through the systems of health, language, legal and social services. RMSA is a school comprised of 98% Somali students of immigrant families and provided the students, space, and transportation for the project.

Outcome:
The objective of the project was to a) train CHWs in the Somali community  b) determine the health needs of the RMSA students c) deliver culturally appropriate health education to RMSA students d) RMSA students to apply physical activity and nutrition health objectives learned in the home.